Our June Tackle the Trail Featured Fan spotlight includes Captain Jeffrey Arends, a seasoned American Airlines pilot, and Blake Wolanin, a young flight instructor. Their experience with Tackle the Trail proves that maintaining one’s health is key, whether you are on the ground or in the sky!
“As a professional aviator for over thirty years it is critical to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Nothing fills that need better than running! Minimum equipment required and you can do it anywhere in our nation. My favorite place to run is on the Airline Trail in Northeast, CT. Tackle the Trail was my first marathon and will not be my last. This race had everything, great support, awesome volunteers, and beautiful views.” – Captain Jeffrey Arends, American Airlines
“I’ve wanted to be a pilot since I was 13. After a lot of hard work, taking me from lessons as a teen to studying at Florida Institute of Technology, I am now a cadet flight instructor for Envoy Air, part of the American Airlines Group. I’ve been fortunate to have my cousin Jeffrey’s guidance along the way and like him, I want to maintain a healthy lifestyle as I travel and fly. Running is always a great way to explore, get some fresh air and stay fit! I love being able to do so with friends and family and always have a great time running and volunteering at Tackle The Trail.” – Blake Wolanin, Envoy Air